Moldovan salad

Moldovan Salad: A Savory Delicacy with Fried Potatoes

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who would have thought that a salad could be so delicious and, at the same time, pamper us with a unique combination of textures and flavors? Moldovan Salad is a perfect choice for those who love fried potatoes, as well as for salad enthusiasts. This recipe combines the savory taste of vegetables with the crunchiness of fried potatoes and cold cuts, offering an unforgettable culinary experience.

The history of this salad is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary tradition. Over time, salads have transformed, adapting to the tastes and ingredients available in different regions, but the combination of fresh vegetables and rich ingredients like cold cuts and mayonnaise has always been appreciated.

Ingredients:

- 1 large carrot
- 1 small beet
- 1/4 cabbage
- 300 g fried potatoes (or as much as you prefer)
- 200 g country ham or any other type of cold cut
- For the mayonnaise:
- 1 boiled egg yolk
- 1 raw egg yolk
- 100 ml oil
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by grating the carrot and beet. Use a large grater to obtain fine strips so that they blend perfectly into the salad. Then, chop the cabbage into thin strips, like in classic coleslaw. These fresh vegetables will add a crunchy contrast and a touch of freshness to the salad.

2. Frying the potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into sticks, then fry them in a deep pan with hot oil. Cook them until golden and crispy, but be careful not to leave them too long, or they will become too dry. Once fried, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

3. Preparing the mayonnaise: In a bowl, mash the boiled egg yolk and add it to the raw egg yolk. Use a whisk to mix the two well. Start adding the oil gradually, whisking constantly until you achieve a creamy consistency. Add the mustard and sour cream, continuing to mix. You can adjust the consistency of the mayonnaise with a little water if necessary, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, combine the grated vegetables with the ham cut into sticks. Add the fried potatoes, but be careful to add them just moments before serving to keep them crunchy.

5. Serving: Pour the mayonnaise over the mixture of vegetables and cold cuts, gently mixing to avoid breaking the potatoes. It is important not to mix the salad too early, as the beet may color the vegetables. You can serve it in cups or on a large platter, garnishing with a few fresh parsley leaves for a more attractive appearance.

Practical tips:

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of cold cuts, such as salami, prosciutto, or even tuna, for a lighter version. You can also add olives or pickles for an extra burst of flavor.
- Lighter mayonnaise: If you want a healthier version, you can replace part of the sour cream with Greek yogurt, resulting in a lower-calorie mayonnaise that is still delicious.
- Keeping the crunchiness: The salad is best served immediately after preparation to maintain the crunchiness of the fried potatoes. If you want to prepare the salad in advance, keep the fried potatoes separate and add them only at serving time.

Nutritional benefits:

This salad combines fresh ingredients rich in vitamins with proteins from the cold cuts. Carrots and beets are excellent sources of antioxidants, while the olive oil in the mayonnaise provides essential fatty acids. However, considering the calorie-rich ingredients, it is recommended to serve it in moderation within a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen vegetables?: While fresh vegetables are preferred for texture and taste, you can use frozen vegetables if fresh ones are not available. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
- What drinks pair well with Moldovan salad?: A salad this rich can be paired with a dry white wine or a refreshing blonde beer. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a spiced tomato juice would be a wonderful choice.

This Moldovan salad is definitely a delicious choice for any meal, bringing a touch of nostalgia and joy in every bite. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family to turn any meal into a true celebration of flavors. Enjoy your meal!